Larry Brook

Lawrence “Larry” Brook, Jr., age 87, of Milbank, SD, passed away on Monday, September 7, 2026, at Milbank Area Hospital – Avera Health.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Living Word Lutheran Church in Milbank, SD. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church on Saturday. Pastor Melanie Reiners will officiate the service, and inurnment will be at Milbank City Cemetery.

Lawrence Wayne Brook, Jr., was born on July 31, 1939, in Ottawa, KS, to Lawrence W. Sr. and Blanche (Crozier) Brook. He grew up in the Bemidji, MN, area and attended school there. Larry graduated from Bemidji High School in 1958.

In January of 1959, Larry enlisted in the United States Air Force. His service took him to various states, including Alaska and Oregon, where he exhibited bravery and honor before being discharged in January 1963 from Portland, OR.

During his time stationed in Oregon, Larry met Peggy Hendrickson, the love of his life. They were united in marriage on January 19, 1963, in Tigard, OR. Together, they raised two daughters: Tina and Tricia.

Following his discharge from the Air Force, Larry and Peggy returned to Bemidji, MN, and later moved to Fargo, ND, where Larry began working for Red Owl. He was transferred back to his hometown while working for Red Owl. On September 20, 1966, Larry joined Otter Tail Power Company and worked there until the plant in Bemidji closed. In 1974, he was transferred to Milbank, SD, and was one of the original employees at the newly established Big Stone Power Plant. He worked his way up to plant operator and served diligently until his retirement on October 1, 2001.

Outside of his professional life, Larry enjoyed bird watching, drawing, and woodworking. Most of all, he cherished spending time with his family. Larry could often be found enjoying a warm Dr. Pepper or indulging in his love for anything peanut butter.

Surviving Larry are his wife of 63 years, Peggy; his daughters: Tina (Bernie) Balling of Milbank, SD; and Tricia (Jeff) Burton of Clyde, TX; eight grandchildren: Chris (Ina) Pederson, Colton (Alex) Hahler, Jessica Herreid, Kaitlyn Brook (Trent Huettl), Brooke Burton, Taylor Balling, Devon Balling (Ramsey Leighton), and Payton (Shyan) Burton; 10 great-grandchildren: Braylee, Lennox, Rexton, Kalyn, Peyton, Scarlett, Rowyn, Huntsleigh, Beckham, and Blakelyn; sister-in-law, Patsy Vest; along with many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his parents: Lawrence Sr. and Blanche Brook; parents-in-law: Hale and Marie Hendrickson; brother-in-law, Richard Vest; and sister-in-law, Wanda Dole and her husband, Paul.

Please feel free to wear casual clothes: the color red or your MN Vikings Gear!